China has been an essential ally after his invasion of Ukraine lasted for more than two years. To the fury of the US and the EU, it has refused to denounce the conflict and has carried on trading with a Russia that is subject to severe sanctions.
But it seems like Mr. Putin is looking for more. Is China, however, prepared to bear the cost?
A delicate balancing act
The Russian president’s decision to visit China for his first international trip since taking office for a fifth term last week may not come as a surprise. The two-day state visit coincides with the “highest point” in their relationship.
